At the Dialogue, the International Science Council underscored the urgent need to reinforce science diplomacy as a critical tool in addressing today’s most pressing global challenges.
In his address, Sir Peter Gluckman emphasized that science diplomacy must be leveraged to serve the global commons – shared spaces and resources beyond national jurisdictions, such as the ocean, polar regions, outer space, and biodiversity. He warned that in today’s fractured world, marked by geopolitical tensions and multilateral challenges, fragmented efforts and institutional competition risk undermining collective progress.
“Science diplomacy is more essential now than at any time since the Cold War. In a fractured world, we must put aside our institutional and national egos and recognize our shared interest in protecting the global commons,” he said.
To strengthen the science diplomacy interface, Gluckman pointed to the persistent disconnect between ministries of science and foreign affairs in many countries. He called for greater coordination and the systematic appointment of science advisors within foreign ministries – an essential step, he argued, to bridge the gap between science and diplomacy and to enable more coherent, informed policy-making at the international level.
Gluckman also highlighted the specific role of the ISC in this ecosystem – as a non-partisan broker of scientific knowledge, operating independently of geopolitical interests.
“The ISC, as the largest and most comprehensive international science organization, has a unique role to play. Its neutrality and ability to convene diverse actors allows it to act as a trusted broker – supporting multilateral processes and helping to advance collective progress, even in times of geopolitical tension.”
From co-convening major UN scientific assessments to advancing informal Track 2 dialogues, the ISC has a long history of enabling science diplomacy. Notable examples include the 1985 Villach conference that laid the groundwork for the formation of the IPCC and UNFCCC.
More recently, the ISC has deepened its commitment to science diplomacy by establishing offices in New York and soon, Geneva, to strengthen engagement with the UN system, and by supporting initiatives such as the UN Group of Friends on Science for Action and the provision of scientific advice to the Biological Weapons Convention.
The International Science Council plays a unique role in advancing science diplomacy by serving as a non-partisan convener of scientific knowledge and actors across borders, disciplines, and divides.
The ISC’s work spans five key dimensions of science diplomacy: fostering equitable dialogue on global issues, promoting responsible governance of disruptive technologies, safeguarding the global commons, supporting scientists in times of crisis, and building capacity within the scientific community for diplomatic engagement.
Whether briefing diplomats on biotechnology risks, supporting science systems under threat, or leading major initiatives like the 5th International Polar Year, the ISC continues to champion science as a global public good and a vital resource for diplomacy and collective action.
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